The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) finds itself in the midst of internal strife after Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra voted in favour of the Waqf Amendment Bill, sparking serious concerns among party leaders over a potential deviation from its long-standing neutral stance on communal issues. The unexpected move has triggered a storm within the party ranks, with senior members demanding clarity on whether this signals a deliberate shift in policy.

The controversy unfolded in the Rajya Sabha, where Sasmit Patra’s support for the bill contradicted what many within the party claimed was a collective decision to oppose it. Although no official whip was issued, party insiders state that clear directions were allegedly given by BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

Leaders Raise Concerns Over Policy Deviation

Senior BJD leader Badri Patra voiced strong objections to the vote, suggesting that internal manipulation may have influenced Sasmit Patra’s decision. “The party had decided to oppose the bill. How did this change at the last moment? Someone played a game, we need to find out who,” he said, questioning whether the vote represented an individual choice or hidden pressures at play.

Badri Patra highlighted a troubling inconsistency in the party’s voting pattern. Of the seven BJD MPs in the Upper House, one opposed the bill, five supported it, and one abstained, raising serious questions over discipline and coordination within the party.

Former minister Prafulla Samal also weighed in on the issue. In a letter to Naveen Patnaik, Samal called for disciplinary proceedings and a comprehensive review of the incident, indicating a growing sentiment among party veterans that Sasmit Patra’s move could not go unaddressed.

Moral Crisis and Eroding Credibility

At the heart of the controversy lies the perception that BJD’s centrist and equidistant political ideology has been compromised. Badri Patra warned that the vote could cause long-term damage to the party’s image. “Sasmit Patra cannot unilaterally alter the party line. His move has damaged the party’s credibility,” he asserted, framing the act as a moral and ideological breach rather than a procedural oversight.

As speculation mounts, the absence of any formal response from Sasmit Patra or the central leadership has only intensified the unease. However, sources close to the leadership indicate that Naveen Patnaik is closely monitoring the situation and is likely to order a formal inquiry soon to determine whether Sasmit acted on his own or followed covert instructions from influential quarters.

Party Unity in Question Amid Rising Tensions

The incident has revealed deep fissures within the BJD, a party long known for its internal discipline and measured political approach. The Waqf Bill vote has now emerged as a flashpoint, with senior leaders openly questioning the legitimacy of decisions being taken and the lack of internal communication.

While the central leadership remains silent publicly, the growing unrest among the party’s old guard signals a critical juncture for the BJD. With demands for accountability gaining traction and the leadership's stance under scrutiny, the coming days may prove pivotal in determining whether the party can resolve this internal crisis or see further cracks emerge in its disciplined facade.